Headteacher Leon Nettley said: “As I am sure you are aware by now there was a fire at the school today.

“I am glad to say that thanks to the responsible way the girls responded, everyone was evacuated safely and the fire brigade responded very quickly to minimise the damage.

“We have made an initial assessment of the damage and will know more tomorrow. At this stage I have decided to close the school on Friday March 21 to give time to assess the situation and make contingency plans.

“I am aware that pupils will have left various possessions behind but at this stage there is no access to the school and so please wait for further instructions on this issue.

“You will appreciate that we are doing everything we can to minimise the impact on your daughter’s education and your support is greatly appreciated.”

He added: “Please note there is no access for pupils at the school site but please keep monitoring the school website for updated information.”